Graduate Exam Abstract

Jonathan Edelen

Abstract: The University of Twente in the Netherlands recently donated a
linear accelerator and free-electron laser system to Colorado State
University. A detailed model and simulation of the system must be
constructed in order to assist the re-commissioning process at CSU.
An initial design of the beam-transport system must also be
developed. This thesis begins with the basic theory needed to
understand the context of the simulations and then works through
the accelerator, starting from the point where the beam is
generated and continuing through the whole system to the beam
dump. Individual components are simulated, their parameters are
characterized, and optimal initial settings are found. These
individual simulations are then combined into a complete start-to-
end simulation of the machine. The start-to-end simulation is then
used to demonstrate the expected performance of the machine with
the optimal settings. This provides a system design that will be
used in the initial buildup of the accelerator, as well as a simulation
tool that can be used for future studies (for example, testing of
novel components) or for examining the impact of proposed design
changes.